\n\n
\n\n
Pros:
\n\nOver the span of slightly more than a year, the one word which would describe my experience in PLVG is 'wholesome'. The type of work I was exposed to covered a satisfying range of portfolio (corporate, conveyancing and litigation matters) in addition to suitable depth (from the basics of drafting letters, to more complex submissions, opinions, research and due diligence exercises).
\n\tConstructive guidance and supervision was provided with the opportunity to also attend meetings with the respective lawyers and/or Partners. My scope of learning was not limited solely to the task at hand but how it related to the overall picture/project, thus providing me with an aerial view. This also resulted in the opportunity to personally handle several files with assistance from the lawyers.
\n\tThe culture and environment is both serious and fun. Serious when it comes to deadlines and things which need to get done; but mixed with a fair share of friendliness and laughter where the Partners genuinely care for the wellbeing of the members of the firm. As a paralegal in the firm, I have gained not only legal technical skills but developed valuable soft skills as a lawyer-to-be throughout my experience in PLVG; exceeding many expectations.
\n\t\n\n
Cons:
\n\nNone
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo formal training, just learn on the job.
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c13r8":{"type":"Image","id":"c13r8","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_0369c63020c04686bc6637e03809c6b1.png","description":"","width":295,"height":52,"alt":""},"c16xz":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c16xz","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Pros:
\n\nGiven the opportunity to essentially run & manage many active files independently under the supervision of the Partners
\n\tExposure to interesting and complex Corporate Commercial transactions
\n\tSupportive colleagues and peers: Always willing to share and impart their know-hows
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo training except on the job
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c17ni":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c17ni","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Pros:
\n\nFantastic office environment and working culture. Everyone is friendly and helpful and works as a team
\n\tPartners are very experienced and happy to guide even paralegals, pupils and interns. Also managed to get a lot of career advice, not just legal work guidance
\n\tExposed to very exciting and interesting work, high end transactions and overseas clients. Got to travel to Hong Kong and Singapore for work matters
\n\t
\nCons:
Only a small number of lawyers (2 partners, 3 associates), so could be less exposed to different work compared to a big law firm
\n\tMay sometimes have to do admin work as well, as there’s only two admin staff for the whole firm
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo training except on the job
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1bhr":{"type":"LinkableButton","id":"c1bhr","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"label":"Share your Salary","link":"#1f98"},"c1cwh":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1cwh","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Review:
\n\nPeter Ling & van Geyzel puts a lot of emphasis on building a healthy and productive firm culture. The partners in this firm actively foster a good relationship with the employees by regularly having get togethers, luncheons and after work activities. On that point, I really love this firm culture as it focuses on the employees' morale which maximises its productivity.
\n\n\n\n
Not only that, this firm has provided me ample opportunities to network with other law firms. Throughout my stint, I had the chance to converse with partners and associates from other law firms, and startups, which I found interesting. It gave me a glimpse on the operation of a conveyancing firm and put me into a better perspective on the area of work I would want to pursue in the future.
\n\n\n\n
In terms of guidance and supervision, my mentor Marcus van Geyzel was extremely helpful throughout my internship. He gave me feedback on every piece of work which I assisted, constantly providing me valuable pieces of advice to improve my quality of work.
\n\n\n\n
All in all, I would definitely recommend this firm. It made me realize the importance of networking and building your social circle in the legal scene instead of only focusing on what an intern is \"supposed to do\". I genuinely had such an amazing internship experience there.
\n\n\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo training except on the job
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1dqi":{"type":"Image","id":"c1dqi","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"1 star.png","uri":"57f5b4_94a8ec35c4d64d98b62668b25c2858c2.png","description":"","width":284,"height":58,"alt":"","originalImageDataRef":"#original_image_254s"},"c1epk":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1epk","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nParalegal
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nQ1 2016
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI applied for the position of paralegal through OfficeParrots and was invited for an interview the following day.
\n\n\n\n
The interview was conducted by two partners and lasted around 30 minutes. Other than asking about my previous law-related experience and why do I want to work in PLVG, the partners also took time to explain what it's like to work in a small firm, the qualities they are looking for in future employees, the firm's working environment, and culture.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person interview by a group / panel
\n\n\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nNone
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n3/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nI received an offer and I accepted.
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\n1 week
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1fd8":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1fd8","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nInternship
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nQ4 2015
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI emailed my CV and cover letter to the firm and got a reply on the following day to attend an interview.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person by a group or panel
\n\tKnowledge / Technical Test
\n\tPersonality Test
\n\t\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nDo you know anything about corporate law?
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n3/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nI did not receive an offer
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\nLess than a week.
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1h6x":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1h6x","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Review:
\n\nEveryone here in the firm is approachable and easy to interact with
\n\tProfessional yet fun to work with
\n\tAssociates and Partners are knowledgeable in their specialised areas
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo training except on the job
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1i5":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1i5","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Workscope:
\n\nCorporate and commercial law, Employment law, Property law, Legal advisory
\n\n\n\n
Pros:
\n\nI find myself on a steep learning curve from day one of getting on board this firm. It's challenging but fulfilling and enjoyable.
\n\tBosses are always willing to hear you out and ready to take you under their wings.
\n\tSetting is professional but laid-back at the same time.
\n\t\n\n
Cons:
\n\nTwo problems: parking and shopping is way too convenient.
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nYes, in-house training.
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1ifh":{"type":"Page","id":"c1ifh","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"title":"*Peter Ling Van Geyzel","hideTitle":true,"icon":"","descriptionSEO":"Find out what it's like to work and grow in the award-winning boutique law firm, Peter Ling & Van Geyzel","metaKeywordsSEO":"law, law malaysia, law firm, legal firm, malaysia law, chambering, pupillage, Peter Ling Van Geyzel","pageTitleSEO":"Working & Chambering at Peter Ling & Van Geyzel","pageUriSEO":"peter-ling-van-geyzel","hidePage":true,"underConstruction":false,"tpaApplicationId":0,"pageSecurity":{"requireLogin":false},"indexable":true,"isLandingPage":false,"pageBackgrounds":{"desktop":{"custom":true,"ref":"#customBgImg106g","isPreset":false},"mobile":{"custom":true,"ref":"#customBgImglis","isPreset":true}}},"c1iwu":{"type":"Image","id":"c1iwu","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_0369c63020c04686bc6637e03809c6b1.png","description":"","width":295,"height":52,"alt":""},"c1sqx":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1sqx","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nChambering Student
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nQ4 2015
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI sent my application through the website and attached a copy of my CV via email. Received a reply on the same day itself.
\n\nA phone interview was held on the following day before being called for an interview at the office. The whole session lasted for roughly 30 minutes.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person interview (1:1)
\n\tKnowledge / Technical Test
\n\tPersonality Test
\n\t\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nDo you know about corporate law?
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n3/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nI did not receive an offer.
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\n1 week
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1srw":{"type":"Image","id":"c1srw","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_0369c63020c04686bc6637e03809c6b1.png","description":"","width":295,"height":52,"alt":""},"c1t4i":{"type":"Image","id":"c1t4i","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_0369c63020c04686bc6637e03809c6b1.png","description":"","width":295,"height":52,"alt":""},"c1tcg":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1tcg","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nInternship / Attachment Student
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nMarch 2015
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI applied through OfficeParrots.
\n\nOnce my CV was submitted, I was called for an interview.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person by a group or panel
\n\n\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nWhat my plan was in 5 years time? Hopefully to be in practice and enjoying it.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n3/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nI received an offer and I accepted.
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\nAbout 1 week.
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":["#Linkhlk"]},"c1u6u":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1u6u","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nChambering Pupil
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nQ4 2017
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI applied online.
\n\n\n\n
The interview was very easy, nothing difficult. Some classic questions were asked like 'tell me about yourself' and 'what did you apply for their firm (except for the reasons in the cover letter)'. The whole process took me not more than 15 minutes and I guess it's because the partners are very busy.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person interview (1:1)
\n\n\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nWhat do you know about corporate law?
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n1/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nI received an offer and I accepted.
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\n1 week
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1xsu":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1xsu","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Review:
\n\nThey're good at what they do and if you know what you want (aka company law), then this is the firm to work at. It's a small firm, it's not too fast-paced, colleagues are friendly (for the most part) and they have lunch together all the time so its a very close knit family.
\n\n\n\n
As a legal intern, the allowance was barely enough to cover transportation and meals. If you are okay with this in return for the experience, you'll do fine.
\n\n\n\n
There isn't any structured program in place both for interns and pupils. You'd have to constantly ask for work to do.
\n\n\n\n
A thing which made it particularly frustrating for me was how one of the Associates behaved - extremely rude and unhelpful. It was just impossible to learn from them. It was a case of a bad apple spoils the bunch.
\n\n\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo training except on the job
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c1xz2":{"type":"Image","id":"c1xz2","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_ad496205c293476ab957e0e92544e266.png","description":"","width":295,"height":55,"alt":""},"c1y20":{"type":"Image","id":"c1y20","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_0369c63020c04686bc6637e03809c6b1.png","description":"","width":295,"height":52,"alt":""},"c1ypl":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c1ypl","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
Workscope:
\n\nCorporate/commercial law, Conveyancing and Employment law
\n\n\n\n
Pros:
\n\nVery friendly office environment and colleagues
\n\tApproachable bosses
\n\tThe firm practices the \"work hard, play hard\"culture (had a lot of after-work firm social events/meals)
\n\tThe firm brings in and handles variety of interesting corporate and commercial work - Independent learning experience
\n\t\n\n
Cons:
\n\nParking is a bit costly - Difficult to find parking during certain hours
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nYes, in-house training.
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c30q":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c30q","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nChambering Pupil
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nQ4 2017
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI applied online.
\n\n\n\n
The application was done online through OfficeParrots.com. They later arranged the time and date of the interview.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person interview (1:1)
\n\n\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nNothing particularly difficult. Just standard questions, eg Introduce yourself and why do you want to work in this firm.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n1/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nDid not receive an offer.
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\nOne week
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"c53r":{"type":"LinkableButton","id":"c53r","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"label":"Share your Experience","link":"#d1f"},"c7o3":{"type":"StyledText","id":"c7o3","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Workscope:
\n\nCorporate and conveyancing
\n\n\n\n
Pros:
\n\nI loved that PLVG understood and embraced the concept of work life balance.
\n\tYou are able to build strong bonds with your fellow staff, as it is a relatively small firm.
\n\tThe open door concept allows you to communicate and liase directly with the partners.
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nInternal training - in-house learning and developmental sessions.
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"cajl":{"type":"StyledText","id":"cajl","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Law Firm, Malaysia
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"cdf1":{"type":"StyledText","id":"cdf1","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nChambering Student
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nQ4 2015
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI found out about PLVG through OfficeParrots. I did a thorough research on the firm and I decided to give it a try.
\n\nI send my CV and cover letter to OfficeParrots, they helped me submit my application to the partners in PLVG. I got an interview confirmation within an hour. This was one of the reasons why I love applying for jobs through Office Parrots as they assisted me with the follow-up and made sure that my application reaches the partners of the firm.
\n\n\n\n
The interview itself was quite short, it took about 15 minutes. I guess the partners are quite busy so they didn't ask me many questions.
\n\nThe questions they asked are very common.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person interview (1:1)
\n\n\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nWhat type of corporate law do you like? Banking or share capital?
\n\nI did not know how to answer that.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n3/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nI did not receive an offer.
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\n3 working days
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"cexv":{"type":"StyledText","id":"cexv","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Designation
\n\nChambering Pupil
\n\n\n\n
Interview Date
\n\nQ4 2017
\n\n\n\n
Process
\n\nI applied online.
\n\n\n\n
Applied through email and 2 days later was called to go for an interview the next day.
\n\n\n\n
The interview a conducted by Mr. Peter Ling. The questions asked were on: 'How did you find out about the firm', 'Tell me about yourself', and 'do you know what kind of corporate work we do?'
\n\n\n\n
The interview experience in general was quite informal, felt like a normal get to know you session. The interview lasted about 20 minutes.
\n\n\n\n
Interview Structure
\n\nIn-person interview (1:1)
\n\n\n\n
Most Difficult Question
\n\nWhat do you know about corporate law?
\n\n\n\n
Interview Difficulty
\n\n3/5
\n\n\n\n
Outcome
\n\nDid not receive an offer.
\n\n\n\n
Entire Duration from Submission to Offer
\n\n2 weeks
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"cgf7":{"type":"StyledText","id":"cgf7","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Review:
\n\nThe month long internship was not a worthwhile experience. I regret to say that the partners do not show much initiative or commitment in guiding, exposing and working the chambees and interns. We had minimal work to do during our internship / employment. The Partners show minimal interest in your career development and it'll be a miracle to get a lunch or drink session with them. Apart from the Partners, the Associates in the firm are really junior i.e. 1 to 2 years of practice so they lack the experience and seniority to be mentoring chambees / interns. In general, you will need to put in 500% worth in effort if you're to get anywhere near to getting the partners to give you work which you can really learn from.
\n\n\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo training except on the job
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"chxm":{"type":"LinkableButton","id":"chxm","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"label":"Share your Experience","link":"#3q9"},"cilj":{"type":"StyledText","id":"cilj","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"Have you worked at this firm?
\n\nShare your experience!
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"cj5k":{"type":"Image","id":"cj5k","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_0369c63020c04686bc6637e03809c6b1.png","description":"","width":295,"height":52,"alt":""},"clja":{"type":"StyledText","id":"clja","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Pros:
\n\nExposed to different areas of law including Corporate and Commercial, Conveyancing and Litigation
\n\tLots of learning opportunities - from carrying out legal research, drafting agreements, conducting Due Diligence, drafting letters, assisting lawyers with trial preparation, attending client meetings to administrative work
\n\tBosses and colleagues are experienced in their respective practice areas and at the same time very approachable and are willing to teach
\n\tGreat insight into how small firms operate and adapted to a commercial environment
\n\t\n\n
Review:
\n\nOverall, my 6 months at PLVG has reinforced my enthusiasm in the legal field and has enabled me to further enhance my technical and soft skills. This invaluable work experience has equipped me for a better transition into the world of practicing lawyers.
\n\n\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nNo training except on the job
\n","stylesMapId":"CK_EDITOR_PARAGRAPH_STYLES","linkList":[]},"ctmo":{"type":"Image","id":"ctmo","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"2.0","isHidden":false},"title":"","uri":"57f5b4_ad496205c293476ab957e0e92544e266.png","description":"","width":295,"height":55,"alt":""},"customBgImg106g":{"type":"BackgroundImage","id":"customBgImg106g","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.1","isHidden":false},"url":"none","positionx":"center","positiony":"top","width":"auto","repeatx":"repeat","repeaty":"repeat","attachment":"fixed","color":"{color_11}","imagesizeh":0,"imagesizew":0},"customBgImglis":{"type":"BackgroundImage","id":"customBgImglis","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.1","isHidden":false},"url":"none","positionx":"center","positiony":"top","width":"auto","repeatx":"repeat","repeaty":"repeat","attachment":"fixed","color":"{color_11}","imagesizeh":0,"imagesizew":0},"cwss":{"type":"LinkableButton","id":"cwss","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"label":"See Salaries and Benefits","link":"#1ws7"},"cza9":{"type":"StyledText","id":"cza9","metaData":{"isPreset":false,"schemaVersion":"1.0","isHidden":false},"text":"\n\n
\n\n
Pros:
\n\nGood volume and different types of work in capital markets, corporate / commercial and conveyancing
\n\tVery healthy work-life balance. No unreasonable hours, though you have to work late when there’s urgent matters
\n\tFriendly and helpful seniors and staff. Easy to get guidance. Small and nice office so you can see / know what everyone is doing and pick up
\n\tFull involvement of files handled. Definitely get to do more than my friends at other firms, from what I heard
\n\tFirm is progressive, not traditional or old fashion. Bosses are innovative are get a lot of interesting work
\n\t\n\n
Cons:
\n\nSmall firm, so less chance to be retained once chambering finished
\n\tNo litigation practice, very corporate heavy, so not much chance to meet lawyers from other firms, other than Bar activity or self initiative
\n\tParking & traffic can be very troublesome (office is in Midvalley)
\n\t\n\n
Training Opportunities
\n\nInternal Training - In-house learning and development sessions
\n\tExternal Training - Conferences, seminars
\n\t